I will rephrase my question. Does your department have any up-to-date studies dealing with mandatory minimum sentences? You have every right to defend them, just as I have every right not to believe in them. However, as Minister, you are required to base your decisions on scientific facts.
When Libby Davies was here, you were asked about Bill C-15. I respect your position as Minister, but I would like to know whether, other than the one by Mr. Roberts, the criminologist, the department has done any studies relating to the effectiveness of mandatory minimum sentences, in terms of recidivism and crime rates. I do not believe you have. You have every right to take an ideological position. Canadians will judge for themselves.